Hmm, didn't see this one coming!

From the BBC -

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Hearts have sacked their head coach Graham Rix, the club has confirmed.
Coach Valdas Ivanauskas has been appointed as his interim replacement, with John McGlynn assisting him.

Rix only took the position in November, following the sacking of the previous head coach, George Burley, after only a few months in the job.

"We have been disappointed with the team's performance. Results were not what they should have been," chairman Roman Romanov told the Hearts website.

"We also felt that some of the signings made in January were not appropriate for Hearts.

"In addition, the events which occurred in February when Hearts played Dundee United, including the way in which some information appeared in the public domain, were disappointing to us.

"I'd like to thank Graham Rix for all his hard work at Hearts. He gave 100% but ultimately it did not work out. Vladimir Romanov and the club's management felt that something had to be done quickly. We owed it to the fans."

Rix's role has been under question ever since, and was further undermined when it emerged owner Vladimir Romanov had picked the team for the game against Dundee United referred to in Hearts' statement.

Hearts signed 11 players during the January transfer window, many of whom were understood to have been chosen by Romanov.

Director of football Jim Duffy has also been relieved of his duties, having been appointed to the role just a month ago.

Hearts are currently second in the SPL, 14 points behind Celtic. Their 1-1 draw at home to Rangers on Sunday kept them six points clear of Alex McLeish's side in the battle for the second Champions League spot.

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This sacking has nothing to do with Rixy's or Heart's performance...it is to do with Romanov's need for absolute control over the club. I fear for the future of the club.

Rix for Newcastle perhaps?

that romanov sounds a right twat dont he.


would you like rix at the toon vic?

I'm not sure if he's a big enough name really, though i could see him working well with Roeder and Big Al.

You must remember I love Rix, him being a Gooner and all, but perhaps taking over the helm at the Mackams might be a better start for him.

Vicky

Since when did a mid-table (at best) club need a big name manager ?

... although you have a point. Rix isn't a big name, there's only 3 letters in it.